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Following recent changes to departmental responsibilities, functions of the former Department of Housing and Public Works have been transferred to new departments. Work is underway to develop and update departments' websites.

Queensland Housing Code and Model Code for neighbourhood design

We will support housing affordability by providing modern and consistent housing siting, design and subdivision rules across Queensland.

Queensland’s population is changing in size, demographics and where and how we choose to live.
We need to provide more affordable housing and greater housing choice to accommodate these changes. We also need to ensure we are creating liveable communities that are attractive, accessible and safe - in essence, better neighbourhoods.

While our communities have a diverse range of housing needs, having updated fit-for-purpose rules for the siting and design of houses wherever they are built across the state can save both time and money.

That is why we will continue to consult with local governments and industry on a draft Queensland Housing Code that will make the assessment process simpler and more efficient.

Through the Model Code for neighbourhood design (Model Code), we will provide a set of subdivision standards. The Model Code will promote good urban design and attractive, safe, accessible and well-integrated neighbourhoods that support healthier communities.

The Model Code is published and open for consultation until 1 September 2019.

Both codes will work together to support affordable, diverse and liveable subdivision and affordable housing outcomes.

Action items

  • Finalise a Queensland Housing Code including details of how the code is applied to provide contemporary siting and design rules for inclusion in the Queensland Development Code, in consultation with local governments and industry.
  • Finalise a Model Code including details of how the code is applied to provide model subdivision standards as part of the reform of the ongoing Queensland planning system, in consultation with local governments and industry.
Last updated: 
12 December 2019